Celebrating Young Champions: Elks Hoop Shoot to Honor National Free-Throw Winners
Celebrating Young Champions: Elks Hoop Shoot to Honor National Free-Throw Winners
On April 18, 2026, the heart of Chicago beat for basketball as the Elks Hoop Shoot National Finals unfolded at the Wintrust Arena. This annual event drew together 72 of the nation’s most talented young free-throw shooters to compete for not just trophies, but for the pride and acknowledgement of their hard work, dedication, and resilience. This year was no different, with contestants showcasing their skills in a spirited atmosphere where competition met camaraderie.
The competition was fierce, with participants divided into six divisions across boys and girls categories within three distinct age groups. Ultimately, only six champions would emerge victorious, each earning the coveted title in their respective divisions. The stakes were high, but so were the spirits. Toward the end of an electrifying day, a total of 1,539 successful free throws were completed, symbolizing the dedication and talent of these aspiring athletes.
The champions for 2026 were crowned as follows:
- - 8-9 Year Olds: Marina Abou-Daoud from New Jersey achieved an impressive 23 out of 25, followed by Kion Montoya from New Mexico who made 24 out of 25, showcasing skill under pressure.
- - 10-11 Year Olds: Ainsley Weaver, representing Ohio, hit 23 out of 25 shots, while Tre Estes III from Montana achieved a flawless 25 out of 25, proving their mettle among the best.
- - 12-13 Year Olds: The top marks were earned by Logyn Parkinson from Michigan with 24 out of 25, and Duncan Walker from Nevada who excelled with a perfect score of 25 out of 25.
This momentous occasion was more than just about winning — it was about building friendships and gaining invaluable experiences. Finalists participated in various activities during Hoop Shoot weekend, including swapping trading cards and attending a Chicago Cubs game, deepening bonds with peers from across the nation.
Adding a touch of inspiration to the event, Olympic athlete Erin Jackson delivered a motivational keynote speech. Reflecting on her highs and lows in her athletic journey, she emphasized that true resilience is reflected not just in winning but in the willingness to get up and try again, echoing the spirit at the heart of the Hoop Shoot.
The remarkable champions will have their legacies immortalized as their names will be displayed in a specialized exhibit at the prestigious Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. This honor not only celebrates their achievements but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of players. The competition has been a staple for the Elks National Foundation for over half a century, empowering young athletes and instilling values of perseverance and grit along their journeys.
As we look to the future, excitement builds for next year’s tournament, which will begin in the fall across local communities nationwide. The Hoop Shoot continues to be a vehicle for change and personal growth, developing young athletes who leave their mark beyond just the statistics. For more details about the champions and the event, visit elks.org/hoopshoot.
In essence, the Elks Hoop Shoot is not simply a distinctive basketball contest; it embodies the spirit of youth sports. It teaches valuable lessons about competition, resilience, and the merit of practice, preparing these young athletes for their future endeavors both on and off the court. From the love of the game to the relationships built along the way, the memories forged in the heat of competition will last a lifetime.
Topics Sports）
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